African Showcase Market Set to Transform Barking with 22 Years of African Heritage and Culture

For over two decades, African Showcase Market (ASM) has infused London with the vibrant energy of Africa, turning boroughs from Brent to Newham into hubs of music, colour, and community spirit. Now in its 22nd year, the cultural powerhouse is returning with a spectacular summer celebration in Barking that promises to be its most dynamic yet.

On Wednesday, 13 August 2025, Barking’s Market Square, Town Centre (IG11 8DQ) will come alive from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for the AfricanShowcaseMarket Festival — a free event organised by Kiskirine Events in partnership with Barking & Dagenham Council. The festival will blend traditional African heritage with modern entertainment, offering visitors an immersive cultural experience.

The event is spearheaded by Princess Bunmi Mustapha, Managing Director of Kiskirine African Showcase Media, whose heritage is rooted in the Muyigeso/Fidipote and Fusengbuwa royal families of Ijebu-Ode. Though born in Europe, her time at Muslim College, Ijebu-Ode, strengthened her ties to her Nigerian roots.

Her vision for the AfricanShowcaseMarket was sparked by witnessing the grandeur of the Ojude-Oba Festival in Nigeria — an experience that inspired her to bring African traditions to a global audience. She hopes, in the future, to channel her expertise into contributing to the growth of the Ojude-Oba celebration itself.

What Visitors Can Expect

This year’s festival will be packed with entertainment, culture, and cuisine, including:

Authentic African crafts and artistic creations

AfroBeats DJ sets delivering infectious rhythms

Suya barbecue served from a London bus

A Nigeria vs. Ghana jollof rice showdown

Caribbean delicacies and street food treats

Colourful African head wraps and fashion accessories

Interactive drumming workshops for all ages

Distinguished guests such as Cllr. Mayoress Princess Bright and Young Mayor Raspreet Singh will also be in attendance to celebrate the spirit of unity and diversity.

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From Street Festivals to Regional Ambitions

The Barking event is just one chapter in ASM’s growing legacy. Over the past 22 years, the organisation has evolved into a network of creative professionals promoting African culture, tourism, and trade.

Looking ahead, ASM plans to expand into regional, multi-day exhibitions at major venues, featuring:

A wider showcase of African tourism and commerce

Family-friendly entertainment and shopping zones

Spaces for direct consumer trade and business networking

Culture in Print

Extending its reach beyond live events, ASM has launched a free glossy magazine to capture its cultural and commercial mission year-round. The publication features stories, interviews, business spotlights, and opportunities for promoting products and services linked to African heritage and enterprise.

Driving African Investment

ASM also operates a trade support service connecting UK-based entrepreneurs with investment opportunities across Africa. This initiative has facilitated ventures in agriculture, real estate, import/export, media, and other rapidly growing sectors.

When Africa Meets London, the Celebration is Unforgettable

On 13 August, Barking will be transformed into a melting pot of music, flavour, and tradition, reaffirming ASM’s role as a cultural bridge between Africa and the UK — and proving that the continent’s spirit continues to shine brightly in the heart of London.